The Inspiring Charlie “Rocket” Jabaley

One of my favorite way to procrastinate studying for my finals is watching anything and everything on YouTube. In a time that I really was searching for inspiration, I found it. I truly believe everyone should hear this man’s story at least once.

For anyone who doesn’t want to watch a few minute video, even though you really should, here’s a short summary:

Charlie Jabaley grew up dreaming of being an athlete but struggled with obesity his whole life. He was a natural businessman instead, and beginning in high school rose through the ranks representing musical talents. At the height of his career, he was representing 2Chainz, making millions of dollars, and over 300 pounds. On paper, Charlie was living a life most people dream of. But in reality, Charlie was living a very unhappy and unhealthy life.

A friend of Charlie’s recognized him struggling, and challenged him to run a marathon. Charlie thought the idea was crazy but began training, wanting to pursue his childhood dream of being an athlete. Charlie would soon run three marathon but gained 50 pounds in the process; although he was running, he still wasn’t addressing his addiction to food. It wasn’t until he passed out one morning that he realized how drastically his life needed to change.

Charlie was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He was no longer worried about just his weight, Charlie’s entire life was at stake.

It was time to reinvent who Charlie Jabaley was. He moved out to California, completely changed his diet and exercise routine. He’s down to 180 pounds, and has completed an Ironman. He looks like a completely new person, calls himself Charlie “Rocket”, and naturally reversed his brain tumor. And he’s pursuing his dream of being the top 1% of athletes in the world. He made an ad about himself trying to be a Nike athlete, and Nike took notice.

If you know me, you know I’m a big Nike fan. The following advertisement is one of the biggest reasons why. Nike put out a very controversial advertisement featuring Colin Kaepernick earlier this year. I find it truly inspiring. I didn’t even realize that they highlight Charlie in it the first time I watched it. This Nike advertisement is the greatest marketing scheme ever and draws its inspiration from truly amazing human beings.

I wanted to share this story with you. It’s never too late to reinvent yourself and to pursue a dream. I hope to take a little bit of Charlie Jabaley’s inspiration and positive attitude, and apply it to my life in the future.